The best reason to go to work
Raul Gonzo asked me to lighting direct a music video for a local band. I have found that Raul is very discerning when it comes to pro bono projects. Yes I said pro bono. So we shot for 5 long days and got pizza and tacos for pay. Why would a couple mid career pros work like madmen for not a single penny?
Have to say that their music is good, very good. So when they go platinum they will come back to us to do all of their videos in return? Unlikely. If and when a band takes off their management and the labels will wrap them up with their own resources and we will not see them again except for on MTV. That’s the way it is and that’s fine.
It is important to keep one’s eye on the ball. At Monkey&Snake we all wear many hats. One day I am a director, the next a producer and lighting grip, then a photographer. Back in the office I am an account executive and strategist. Ariel wears as many hats. We wear so many hats because we are good at it but most importantly we really enjoy it. We are agile, quick to react and never ever bored.
Working on the video was as much for us as it was for the band. The band will see an immediate benefit from this video. But Raul and Monkey&Snake will see the long term benefit. Adding this video to our reels keeps us relevant to a demographic that we must not lose touch with. We deal with corporate accounts that ultimately depend on the very people that watch music videos to purchase their products. We pay attention to trends, fashion, pop culture and art.
Sure in business one must stay relevant, aggressive and farsighted. Doing this video fit the bill, a smart investment in our companies future. So was it worth it? I worked so hard that it took me a few days to recover…and I loved every minute of it. Working with smart ,creative people while doing what you love…
Isn’t that the best reason to go to work?
A Walk With Franz Kafka
Ariel and I were in Prague for some meetings. Like many places in Europe, the Czech Republic is ancient and uncommonly beautiful. When I travel there are two things that I study closely. First the people, their dress, styles, grooming, behavior…
Korea Today
I was in South Korea pitching a new media plan to a client that we really enjoy working with. The meetings were successful with some major wins for all parties involved.
South Koreans are so much like the Chinese. They are smart, curious and want to move forward. Not saying that the Japanese aren’t but the Koreans are aggressive and fast to react.
Chemistry And Company
We just finished shooting a couple of commercial spots for Fremont Rideout Health Group. Everyone there was warm and welcoming but our presence was a bit conspicuous no matter how low key we tried to keep it.
The best reason to go to work
Raul Gonzo asked me to lighting direct a music video for a local band. I have found that Raul is very discerning when it comes to pro bono projects. Yes I said pro bono. So we shot for 5 long days and got pizza and tacos for pay.
Land of my people.
I have always felt such a connection to Japan for obvious reasons perhaps. I am an American Japanese (third generation, sansai). When dealing with Japanese companies I have done very well communicating, socializing…
A beautiful crafted book
When Cirque Akya approached Ariel Borremans to create a children book based on their own characters, one illustrator was the obvious choice. Bruce Roberts is a friend and the most decorated illustrator in Canada.
Designed in China
We’ve heard it loud and clear: The Chinese no longer aspire to be the factory of the world: They want to be part of the creative action! From October 24th to the 30th, I was at the ICOGRADA congress in Beijing, which was held in China for the very first time. More than 2000 attendees, 97 internationally renowned speakers from 6 continents congregated to discuss the future of their profession–and to admire China’s progresses.
Miki Tour
Like most photographers I do not feel comfortable in front of a camera. Funny thing since I do not mind aiming it towards others. But photographers are observers. The camera is a time machine that allows you to study what was. The photograph is an intensely personal observation and proof that [...]
Asia Report
Early September, 2009 – Over a year since has gone by Monkey&Snake opened its Shanghai office! We’ve been more than busy here, supporting sales for Taylor Brothers Farms, attending food shows in China (SIAL, FIC, BIOFACH), traveling to shows in Tokyo (Foodex) and Hong Kong (Hofex), and visiting facilities in South Korea.
It’s important for [...]
Summer
Summer, my favorite time of year. Sure spring is good but only because it precedes summer. These long hot days in California and the rich soil here in the Sacramento Valley make this area a cornucopia for plant life. One of my favorite chores for Monkey and Snake is building our stock library of plants, [...]